Mark Routhier

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Mark Edward Routhier Jr.. Mark passed away on August 3, 2021 at the age of 31 after fighting a long battle with Stiff Person Syndrome, a rare neuromuscular disease. He fought it like a warrior, always giving hope to those who fought the disease with him.

Markie fought his disease by researching all he could. He established a Facebook group and held zoom meetings with people from different countries who were also afflicted with this disease. Markie brought hope and purpose to those around him. His tenacity in dealing with the amount of pain was inspiring to so many. Markie always showed his courage during this difficult battle, always keeping a smile on everyone’s face around him. Stiff person syndrome affects only one in a million and that’s the best way to describe him “One in a Million” Despite the pain, Markie came out a hero and stayed strong until the end.

Markie grew up in Norwell where he attended Norwell schools. Markie worked as a successful project manager and realtor. He loved working and worked until his body was no longer able.

Mark is survived by his parents Mark and Gia Routhier; his sister Ashley Onyskow and brother in law Oliver Onyskow; his nephews Owen and Oliver and niece Camryn; his grandfather Enrico Gilberti; and many loving uncles, aunts and cousins.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate his life with a visitation at the Richardson-Gaffey Funeral Home, 382 First Parish Road in Scituate on Tuesday, August 10 from 4-8 PM. Funeral service Wed., August 11 at 11 AM at the Church of Abundant Life, 1881 Washington St, Braintree, MA followed by interment at Saint Mary’s Cemetery in Scituate.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future”

Jeremiah 29:11

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...

but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.

I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.

Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.

Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.

That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,

God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.

As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.

I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.

There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.

And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.

And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.

God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years

because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.

But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.

Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.

But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.

But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.

I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;

but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.

It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...

that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,

then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."

And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,

knowing as I passed along the waiy, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,

just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.

When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;

I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,

remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.

-Written by Mark E. Routhier, Jr.